Robber Flies

These odd looking insects look like a little helicopter, and fly in a similar fashion.

Quick, maneuverable and accurate - which they need to be to catch their prey on the wing.

They are excellent predators of other insects, valued in the xeric garden.

Along with many other 'flies' these are a crucial part of the war against pests. Without the sheer numbers of predatory flies, wasps and others, the pest population would be out of control. I value all of these types of insects, even if they are rough looking characters.

Their appetite is for flying insects which they take on the wing, which makes it important not to use chemical warfare on your garden. See more about earth friendly pest control methods in the Plant Pests E-Book.